Top 5 Road Trips in the US
Most people dream about hopping on the open road and leaving their worries behind. Road trips are a symbol of freedom, adventure, and living life to its fullest. If you’re itching to take one of the most thrilling rides of your life, then you’re in luck. America is filled to the brim with stunningly beautiful and spectacular roads that stretch for miles. These are the top five road trips, ranked by adventurers just like yourself.
1. Route 66
The American classic, Route 66 begins in Lake Michigan and stretches all the way to Los Angeles. While you can put the pedal to the metal and travel this road in just two weeks, it’s highly advised to give yourself the time to explore all the attractions along the way.
St Joseph’s, America’s oldest church, is one of the most popular. There’s Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico, Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the world’s largest rocking chair in Missouri, just to name a few. Route 66 also features a host of classic diners and motels that look straight out of a Hollywood movie.
2. Great River Road
The Great River Road travels alongside the Mississippi River as it winds through picturesque nature scenes. There are plenty of places to stop and hike as well as wildlife resorts aplenty. The Theodore Roosevelt Refuge and Yazoo Refuge are two of the most popular.
As you head into the southern stretch, you’ll also find cozy river towns with plenty of fried delicacies. Complete the trip and you’ll end up in New Orleans where you can experience fresh seafood and the birthplace of jazz.
3. Pacific Coast Highway
This is the ultimate top-down drive in the United States, offering the warm sunshine of California and the cool breeze of the ocean. It takes about three days to complete, heading along the coast all the way from San Francisco to San Diego.
Make sure to stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Big Sur National Park along the way. As you trip concludes, a wine tasting in Solvang is in order. Known as California’s “Little Denmark,” it’s well worth the stop.
4. The Loneliest Road
Also known as US-50, this road begins in Maryland’s Ocean City and ends in California’s Sacramento. Passing through twelve states and four capitals, there’s plenty to stop and see in-between sweeping mountain ranges and desert stretches.
US-50’s stretch in Nevada earns the Loneliest Road moniker with seemingly endless miles of flat land and few towns to mention. Make sure to stop at Nevada Beach and Great Basin National Park during your trip.
5. Overseas Highway
If a shorter trip is more up your alley, then check out the Overseas Highway. You can wrap it up in roughly four hours, but the views are some of the most breathtaking in the country. These roads stretch over the sea, connecting Florida to two of its beaches. Take your pick of Miami, Key West, or both.
Staying Safe
Keep in mind that most of these are incredibly long journeys. It’s vital that you keep your car in tip-top shape, especially in the desert heat, and can call emergency services if you were injured in a car accident. While the adventure is thrilling, always play it safe to get the most out of your travels.
